HIV PREVENTION

One Pill. Once a day.

PrEP, which stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis, is a medication approved by the FDA for daily use that can help people stay HIV-negative. PrEP is meant to be taken before you are exposed to HIV infection. The pill is called Truvada, a two-drug combination in one pill. A doctor prescribes the medication, and it is taken once a day.

How does PrEP work?

PrEP prevents HIV from spreading in your body.

If you are exposed to bodily fluids — such as semen, blood or vaginal fluids — of someone with HIV, having PrEP in your bloodstream blocks the pathways that lead to infection.

PrEP is more than 90% effective when taken consistently, according to the CDC.

Experts recommend taking PrEP daily in combination with other safer sex practices (condom use and regular HIV/STI testing) in order to significantly reduce your risk of contracting HIV.

How do I know if PrEP is right for me?

People use PrEP to remain HIV-negative for a variety of reasons.

+ You have multiple sexual partners;

+ Your primary sexual partner(s) is HIV-positive;

+ You have had sex without condoms, especially with a partner who is HIV-positive or whose status is unknown;

+ You have been treated recently for a non-oral STI;

+ You or your sexual partner(s) use needle based drugs;

+ You have taken PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) more than once in the past year;

+ Your sexual partner(s) refuses to use condoms during sex, or you find it challenging to consistently use condoms; or

+ You or your sexual partner(s) engage in sex work

How much does it cost?

For most people, PrEP is inexpensive or even free. Even if you do not have health insurance, NovusACS can help you get PrEP at a reduced cost or no cost at all.

Is there any reason not to use PrEP?

You should not use PrEP if any of the following apply to you:

+ You are HIV-positive or show symptoms of HIV infection;

+ You do not have access to regular HIV/STI testing and prevention counseling;

+ You do not plan to take the medication consistently; or

+ You have kidney disease or reduced kidney health.

Are there any side effects?

Most people who take PrEP do not experience any side effects.

How do I get PrEP?

Call and schedule your appointment. Phone: (610) 867-5365

Additional Resourses:

Project Inform’s PrEP flow chart may come in handy for accessing services and covering medical costs related to PrEP. It is not uncommon for people to face problems with their insurance and prescription plans covering the costs of Truvada for PrEP. This infographic provides details that may be useful to you.